Skin moisturizer

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a topical skin care composition and corresponding methods for its use comprising water, a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and a silicone containing compound. The composition is dermatologically acceptable and is capable of moisturizing skin for at least twelve hours after topical application to skin even after multiple washings of the skin.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/704,091 filed May 2, 2013, which is a national phase application under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Patent Application PCT Application No. PCT/US2011/037736, filed May 24, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/355,412, filed Jun. 16, 2010. The contents of the referenced applications are incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to compositions that can be used to improve the skin's visual appearance. In particular, the present invention concerns topical skin care compositions that include water, a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and a silicone containing compound. A particular use for the composition can be to moisturize skin or treat dried, chapped, or flaky skin such as hand skin.

B. Description of Related Art

Several skin moisturizing compositions are currently available. These compositions have various drawbacks ranging from unpleasant tactile properties (e.g., heavy, greasy, or sticky feel), low staying power (e.g., tendency to migrate and pool from point of application or tendency to be easily removed from the skin via being subjected to only one washing), or insufficient moisturization capabilities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes deficiencies in the art by providing a cosmetically elegant composition that is capable of remaining on the skin even after the skin is subjected to washing (e.g., rinsing the skin with water or with soap and water). The composition is also capable of moisturizing the skin for at least 12, 18, 20, or 24 hours after topical application.

In one aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed a composition that includes any one of, any combination of (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4), or all of water, a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and/or a silicone containing compound, wherein the composition is dermatologically acceptable and capable of moisturizing skin for at least 12 hours after topical application to skin. In particular aspects, the cationic surfactant can include distearyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, although others can be used such as those known in the art or disclosed in this specification. The occlusive skin conditioning agent can include petrolatum, although others can be used such as those known in the art or disclosed in this specification. The humectant can include glycerin or propylene glycol or a combination thereof, although others can be used such as those known in the art or disclosed in this specification. The silicone containing compound can include dimethicone, although others can be used such as those known in the art or disclosed in this specification. In particular aspects, the composition includes 60 to 80% w/w of water, 3 to 7% w/w of the cationic surfactant, 5 to 10% w/w of the occlusive skin conditioning agent, 3 to 15% w/w of the humectant skin conditioning agent, and/or 0.1 to 2% w/w of the silicone containing compound. In further embodiments, the composition includes 10 to 15% w/w of the humectant skin conditioning agent. In still another aspect, the composition can further include any one of, any combination of (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10), or all of the following ingredients: C12-15 alkyl benzoate; cetyl alcohol; caprylic/capric triglyceride; diazolidinyl; tocopherol acetate; methylparaben; disodium edta; allantoin; sodium chloride; and/or triethanolamine. In a further embodiment, the composition include: 1 to 3% w/w of C12-15 alkyl benzoate; 1 to 3% w/w of cetyl alcohol; 1 to 3% w/w of caprylic/capric triglyceride; 0.1 to 2% w/w of diazolidinyl; 0.1 to 2% w/w of tocopherol acetate; 0.1 to 2% w/w of methylparaben; 0.001 to 1% w/w of disodium edta; 0.01 to 1% w/w of allantoin; 0.01 to 1% w/w of sodium chloride; and/or 0.01 to 1% w/w of triethanolamine. The composition can consist or consist essentially of any of the aforementioned ingredients. In certain aspects, the composition is an emulsion. The emulsion can be an oil-in-water emulsion. The emulsion can be formulated as a cream or a lotion. In certain aspects, the oil phase of the emulsion can include any one of, any combination of (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5), or all of the following ingredients: C12-15 alcohols benzoate, caprylic/capric triglycerides, tocopheryl acetate, petrolatum, and/or cetyl alcohol. The composition can have a cosmetically or pharmaceutically elegant feel such a non-oily, non-greasy, non-sticky, non-tacky, and/or silky feel. A person of ordinary skill in the art of topical skin formulations understands the meaning of such tactile properties. In one embodiment, the composition includes, consists essentially of, or consists of all of the ingredients in the amounts described in Table 1 of this application and/or amounts of ingredients thereof, which is incorporated into this section by reference.

In another aspect of the present invention, the composition includes water, a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and a silicone containing compound, wherein the composition is dermatologically acceptable and capable of moisturizing skin for at least 12 hours after topical application to skin. The ratio of the amount of water (w/w) to the amount of humectant (w/w) within the composition ranges from 4:1 to 7:1 or from 5:1 to 6:1, the ratio of the amount of water (w/w) to the amount of occlusive agent (w/w) within the composition ranges from 8:1 to 11:1, or from 9:1 to 10:1, the ratio of the amount of water (w/w) to the amount of silicon containing compound (w/w) within the composition ranges from 130:1 to 140:1, and/or the ratio of the amount of water (w/w) to the amount of cationic surfactant (w/w) within the composition ranges from 12:1 to 15:1 or from 13:1 to 14:1.

In yet another embodiment, the composition includes 60-80% by weight of water, 3-7% by weight of a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and 0.1-2% w/w of a silicone containing compound, wherein the composition is dermatologically acceptable and capable of moisturizing skin for at least 12 hours after topical application to skin, and wherein the ratio of the amount of humectant(s) (w/w) to the amount of occlusive(s) (w/w) is from 1:1 to 2:1, or from 1.5:1 to 2:1. Such amounts and ratios provide for a composition that has a light, non-oily feel yet has excellent moisturization properties and pro-longed sustainability (i.e., can remain on the skin even after the skin is rinsed or washed at least on two separate occasions).

In certain embodiments, the compositions are formulated into topical skin care compositions. The compositions can be cosmetic compositions. In other aspects, the compositions can be included in a cosmetic vehicle. Non-limiting examples of cosmetic vehicles are disclosed in other sections of this specification and are known to those of skill in the art. Examples of cosmetic vehicles include emulsions (e.g., oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions), creams, lotions, solutions, gels, and ointments. In other non-limiting embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be included in skin moisturizing products such as hand moisturizers. The compositions can also be formulated for topical skin application at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or more times a day during use. In other aspects of the present invention, compositions can be storage stable or color stable, or both. The compositions of the present invention have a viscosity between 75,000 and 100,000 cps, as measured on a Brookfield Viscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5 rpm at 25° C., a well-known device used to measure the viscosity of compositions. The compositions in non-limiting aspects can have a pH of about 6 to about 9. In other aspects, the pH can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14. In other aspects, the compositions can be sunscreens having a sun protection factor (SPF) of 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or more.

In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for moisturizing skin comprising topically applying any one of the compositions disclosed throughout this specification to skin in need of moisturization. In particular aspects, the composition can be applied to dry or flaky skin. The composition can moisturize skin for a prolonged period of time (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, or 24, or more hours after topical application) even after the skin is subjected to multiple rinsings or washings (e.g., at least two washings). The composition has the ability to remain on the skin even after the skin has been rinsed or washed on at least two different occasions. In particular aspects, the composition has been found to be highly effective in moisturizing hand skin and can remain on the hand skin after multiple hand rinsings or washings. The composition can have a cosmetically or pharmaceutically elegant feel such a non-oily, non-greasy, non-sticky, non-tacky, and/or silky feel after being applied to skin such as hand skin.

Also disclosed is a method of treating or preventing a skin condition comprising topical application of any one of the compositions described in this specification to skin in need thereof, wherein the topical application of the composition treats the skin condition. In one aspect, the method includes moisturizing skin or treating or preventing the appearing of dry skin, flaky skin, or chapped skin. In other aspects, it is contemplated that the compositions can be used to treat or prevent skin conditions ranging from pruritus, spider veins, lentigo, age spots, senile purpura, keratosis, melasma, blotches, fine lines or wrinkles, nodules, sun damaged skin, dermatitis (including, but not limited to seborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, exfoliative dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis), psoriasis, folliculitis, rosacea, acne, impetigo, erysipelas, erythrasma, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions. In certain non-limiting aspects, the skin condition can be caused by exposure to UV light, age, irradiation, chronic sun exposure, environmental pollutants, air pollution, wind, cold, heat, chemicals, disease pathologies, smoking, or lack of nutrition. The skin can be facial skin or non-facial skin (e.g., arms, legs, hands, chest, back, feet, etc.). The method can further comprise identifying a person in need of skin treatment. The person can be a male or female. The age of the person can be at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or more years old, or any range derivable therein. The method can also include topically applying an amount effective to: increase the stratum corneum turnover rate of the skin; increase collagen synthesis in fibroblasts; increase cellular anti-oxidant defense mechanisms (e.g., exogenous additions of anti-oxidants can bolster, replenish, or prevent the loss of cellular antioxidants such as catalase and glutathione in skin cells (e.g., keratinocytes, melanocytes, langerhans cells, etc.) which will reduce or prevent oxidative damage to the skin, cellular, proteins, and lipids); inhibit melanin production in melanocytes; reduce or prevent oxidative damage to skin (including reducing the amount lipid peroxides and/or protein oxidation in the skin). In certain embodiments, compositions of the present invention can decrease the amount of internal oxidation and/or external oxidative damage in a cell. In other aspects, the compositions can increase collagen synthesis in a cell. The compositions can also reduce skin inflammation, such as by reducing inflammatory cytokine production in a cell. Non-limiting examples of such cells include human epidermal keratinocyte, human fibroblast dermal cell, human melanocytes, three dimensional human cell-derived in vitro tissue equivalents comprising human keratinocytes, human fibroblasts, or human melanocytes, or any combination thereof (e.g., combination of human keratinocytes and human fibroblasts or a combination of human keratinocytes and human melanocytes).

In a particular embodiment, there is disclosed a skin moisturizing composition comprising: (a) a discontinuous oil phase comprising less than 25% by weight of the composition, wherein the discontinuous oil phase includes: (i) 6 to 8% w/w of petrolatum; and (ii) 0.1 to 1% w/w/ of dimethicone; (b) a continuous water phase comprising at least 75% by weight of the composition, wherein the continuous water phase includes: (i) 65 to 70% w/w water; (ii) 6 to 8% w/w/ of glycerin; and (iii) 4 to 6% w/w of propylene glycol; and (c) 4 to 6% w/w/ of distearyldimonium chloride, wherein the composition has a viscosity between 75,000 to 100,000 cps, as measured on a Brookfield Viscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5 rpm at 25° C. The composition can be a cream or a lotion. In certain aspects, the composition is not a foam, is not dispensed as a foam, does not include a foaming agent, and/or is not contained in an aerosolized container or a container that has a foam-based pump mechanism. In certain aspects, the composition also does not include a film forming polymer. The discontinuous oil-phase can further comprise: (iv) 1-3% w/w of C12-15 alkyl benzoate; (v) 1-3% w/w of cetyl alcohol; and (vi) 1-3% w/w of caprylic/capric triglyceride. The composition is formulated to remain on the skin even after the skin has been washed with water and soap for a period of time (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 minutes). The composition is also formulated to moisturize skin for a period of 24 hours. A method for moisturizing skin is also disclosed which uses the described compositions. The method includes topically applying the composition to skin in need thereof (e.g., dry skin, flaky skin, erythemic skin, sensitive skin, etc.), wherein topical application of the composition moisturizes the skin. The method can include determining the level of skin moisturization by comparing water content of the stratum corneum of the skin prior to topical application of the composition and 24 hours after topical application of the composition. 24 hours post topical application is a good measuring point, as it is a sufficiently long enough period to determine whether the moisturization properties of a given composition are effective for a prolonged period of time (i.e., long-lasting moisturization effects). In particular aspects, the skin moisture can be increased by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10% or more over a 24 hour period of time. In particular instances, the range of moisturization is between 5 to 9%, 6 to 9%, 7 to 9%, or 8 to 9%.

It is also contemplated that the compositions of the present invention can include cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical ingredients. For instance, the compositions can include UV absorbing agents, moisturizing agents, antioxidants, structuring agents, essential oils, thickening agents, preservatives, or skin lightening agents, or any combination of such ingredients, at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and/or 8 of such ingredients, or all of such ingredients. Non-limiting examples of these ingredients are provided throughout this specification and incorporated into this section by reference.

Also contemplated are kits that includes the compositions of the present invention. In certain embodiments, the composition is comprised in a container. The container can be a bottle, dispenser, or package. The container can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition. In certain aspects, the compositions is dispensed in a spray, dollop, or liquid. The container can include indicia on its surface. The indicia can be a word, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

Also contemplated is a product comprising a composition of the present invention. In non-limiting aspects, the product can be a cosmetic product. The cosmetic product can be those described in other sections of this specification or those known to a person of skill in the art. Non-limiting examples of products include a moisturizer, a cream, a lotion, a skin softener, a foundation, a night cream, a lipstick, a cleanser, a toner, a sunscreen, a mask, or an anti-aging product.

The compositions and methods for their use can “comprise,” “consist essentially of,” or “consist of” any of the ingredients disclosed throughout the specification. When the transitional phrase “consist(s) essentially of” is used in a claim, the basic and novel characteristic of the claimed composition is its ability to moisturize skin for at least 12 hours while also having good staying power (e.g., ability to remain on the skin after being subjected to washing of the skin—i.e., rinsing the skin with water or with soap and water) and a cosmetically elegant feel.

It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented with respect to any method or composition of the invention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the invention can be used to achieve methods of the invention.

In one embodiment, compositions of the present invention can be pharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant. “Pharmaceutically elegant” and/or “cosmetically elegant” describes a composition that has particular tactile properties which feel pleasant on the skin (e.g., compositions that are not too watery or greasy, compositions that have a silky texture, compositions that are non-tacky or sticky, etc.). Pharmaceutically or cosmetically elegant can also relate to the creaminess or lubricity properties of the composition or to the moisture retaining properties of the composition.

“Topical application” means to apply or spread a composition onto the surface of keratinous tissue. “Topical skin composition” includes compositions suitable for topical application on keratinous tissue. Such compositions are typically dermatologically-acceptable in that they do not have undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like, when applied to skin. Topical skin care compositions of the present invention can have a selected viscosity to avoid significant dripping or pooling after application to skin.

“Keratinous tissue” includes keratin-containing layers disposed as the outermost protective covering of mammals and includes, but is not limited to, skin, hair and nails.

The terms “mixture,” “mix,” and “mixing” or any variants of these terms, when used in the claims and/or specification includes, stirring, blending, dispersing, milling, homogenizing, and other similar methods. The mixing of the components or ingredients of the disclosed compositions can form into a solution. In other embodiments, the mixtures may not form a solution. The ingredients/components can also exist as undissolved colloidal suspensions.

The term “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%, more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

The term “substantially” and its variations are defined as being largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment substantially refers to ranges within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, or within 0.5%.

The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or any variation of these terms, when used in the claims and/or the specification includes any measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desired result.

The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and/or claims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intended result.

Skin moisturization of treated skin (i.e., skin in which a composition of the present invention has been applied to) and un-treated skin (i.e., skin in which a composition of the present invention has not been applied to) can be determined by measuring the amount of water present in the stratum corneum of the treated skin and un-treated skin. A particularly useful instrument to make this measurement is the Nova™ DPM 9003 Dermal Phase Meter, which is sold by NOVA Technology Corp, and which is a well-known and accepted instrument in the cosmetics industry for measuring water content in the stratum corneum of skin. By way of example, the water content of the stratum corneum of a test site can be determined prior to topical application of a composition (un-treated skin) and subsequent to topical application of the composition (treated skin) via the Nova™ DPM 9003 Dermal Phase Meter. This way, a base line can be determined for un-treated skin. An acceptable period of time to determine the moisturizing properties of the compositions of the present invention is after 24 hours after topical application. As shown in the Examples, the compositions of the present invention have the ability to increase moisturization by 9% over a 24 hour period.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.”

The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and “and/or.”

As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the examples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In today's image conscious society, people are continually looking for a product that can improve the visual appearance of their skin. For instance, symptoms associated with dry skin (e.g., flaky skin, dried or rough tactile quality, cracked skin, dehydrated skin, itchy skin, or red or erythemic skin) is associated with unattractive skin. Previous attempts to create a composition to treat or prevent dry skin have been meet with numerous drawbacks ranging from compositions having unpleasant tactile properties (e.g., heavy, greasy, or sticky feel), low staying power (e.g., tendency to migrate and pool from point of application or tendency to be easily removed from the skin via being subjected to only one washing), or insufficient moisturization capabilities.

The present invention is an effective alternative to the current skin moisturizers on the market. In one non-limiting aspect, the compositions of the present invention include a composition comprising water, a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and a silicone containing compound. This combination of features surprising produces a dermatologically acceptable composition that has a cosmetically elegant feel and is capable of moisturizing skin for at least twelve hours after topical application to skin even after being subjected to multiple skin washings. These and other aspect of the present invention are described in further detail below.

A. Water

The skin moisturizing compositions of the present invention include water. One of the benefits of water is that it is capable of producing a composition having a light, non-greasy feel. An additional benefit is that water is a natural ingredient that can hydrate the skin.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the compositions can include relatively high amounts of water (e.g., 60 to 80% w/w of water). The drawback of having such a high amount of water is that it can result in a composition that has a relatively low staying power. The inventor has surprisingly discovered that a combination of a cationic surfactant, an occlusive skin conditioning agent, a humectant skin conditioning agent, and a silicone containing compound along with a high amount of water can produce a composition that has good staying power and pleasant tactile properties.

B. Cationic Surfactant

Cationic surfactants are positively charged molecules that have the ability to emulsify two immiscible phases such as water and oil. One of the benefits of using a cationic surfactant in the context of the present invention is that it can help increase the staying power of the composition to skin, which has an overall negative charge. Non-limiting examples of cationic surfactants that can be used in the context of the present invention include those listed in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary Handbook, 12^(th) Edition (2008), which is incorporated by reference.

In particular embodiments, the inventor discovered that cationic quaternary ammonium salts having the following generic formula work well:

where R₁, R₂, R₃, and R₄, are independently selected from an aliphatic group having from 1 to about 22 carbon atoms, or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having 1 to about 22 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain. X⁻ is a salt-forming anion such as those selected from halogen, (e.g., chloride, bromide), acetate, citrate, lactate, glycolate, phosphate, nitrate, sulfate, and alkylsulfate. The aliphatic groups can contain, in addition to carbon and hydrogen atoms, ether linkages, ester linkages, and other groups such as amino groups. The longer chain aliphatic groups, e.g., those of about 12 carbons, or higher, can be saturated or unsaturated. In one embodiment, distearlyl dimethyl ammonium chloride proved to work exceptionally well in the context of the present invention, which is widely available from commercial sources. Non-limiting examples of additional quaternary ammonium salts that can be used in the context of the present invention include those listed in PCT Publications WO 97/40816 and WO 97/40817, the contents of both are incorporated by reference.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the compositions can include about 1 to 10% w/w of a cationic surfactant such as distearlyl dimethyl ammonium chloride. In particular aspects, the inventor discovered that 3 to 7% w/w worked well in view the relatively high amount of water and the additional skin moisturizing agents and silicone containing compounds in the composition.

C. Occlusive Skin Conditioning Agent

Occlusive skin conditioning agents include ingredients that are capable of reducing or preventing the evaporation of water from the skin surface. By reducing or preventing such evaporation, occlusive agents increase the water content of the skin. Non-limiting examples of occlusive agents that can be used in the context of the present invention include those listed in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary Handbook, 12^(th) Edition (2008), Vol. 3, pages 3263-3267, which is incorporated by reference. A non-limiting example of an occlusive agent is petrolatum.

The inventor discovered that petrolatum works well in the context of the present invention. Petrolatum is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum and is widely available from commercial sources.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the compositions can include about 1 to 15% w/w of petrolatum. In particular aspects, the inventor discovered that 5 to 10% w/w worked well in view the relatively high amount of water and the additional cationic surfactants, moisturizing agents, and silicone containing compounds in the composition.

D. Humectant Skin Conditioning Agent

Humectant skin conditioning agents include ingredients that are capable of increasing the water content of the top layers of skin by retaining water present in the composition and also absorbing or attracting water from air. Non-limiting examples of humectants that can be used in the context of the present invention include those listed in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary Handbook, 12^(th) Edition (2008), Vol. 3, pages 3236-3239, which is incorporated by reference. Non-limiting examples of humectants include glycerin and propylene glycol, both of which are widely available from commercial sources.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the compositions can include about 1 to 20% w/w of a humectant. In particular aspects, the inventor discovered that a combination of glycerin and propylene glycol works well in the context of the present invention in view the relatively high amount of water and the additional cationic surfactants, moisturizing agents, and silicone containing compounds in the composition, where glycerin is present in amount of 5 to 10% w/w and propylene glycol is present in an amount of 3 to 7% w/w.

E. Silicone Containing Compounds

Silicone containing compounds can provide a silky, non-oily feel to topical skin care compositions. In non-limiting aspects, silicone containing compounds include any member of a family of polymeric products whose molecular backbone is made up of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with side groups attached to the silicon atoms. By varying the —Si—O— chain lengths, side groups, and crosslinking, silicones can be synthesized into a wide variety of materials. They can vary in consistency from liquid to gel to solids.

The silicone containing compounds that can be used in the context of the present invention include those described in this specification or those known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examples include silicone oils (e.g., volatile and non-volatile oils), gels, and solids. In certain aspects, the silicon containing compounds includes a silicone oils such as a polyorganosiloxane. Non-limiting examples of polyorganosiloxanes include dimethicone, cyclomethicone, polysilicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, or mixtures of these and other organosiloxane materials in any given ratio in order to achieve the desired consistency and application characteristics depending upon the intended application (e.g., to a particular area such as the skin, hair, or eyes). A “volatile silicone oil” includes a silicone oil have a low heat of vaporization, i.e. normally less than about 50 cal per gram of silicone oil. Non-limiting examples of volatile silicone oils include: cyclomethicones such as Dow Corning 344 Fluid, Dow Corning 345 Fluid, Dow Corning 244 Fluid, and Dow Corning 245 Fluid, Volatile Silicon 7207 (Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn.); low viscosity dimethicones, i.e. dimethicones having a viscosity of about 50 cst or less (e.g., dimethicones such as Dow Corning 200-0.5 cst Fluid). The Dow Corning Fluids are available from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich. Cyclomethicone and dimethicone are described in the Third Edition of the CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (incorporated by reference) as cyclic dimethyl polysiloxane compounds and a mixture of fully methylated linear siloxane polymers end-blocked with trimethylsiloxy units, respectively. Other non-limiting volatile silicone oils that can be used in the context of the present invention include those available from General Electric Co., Silicone Products Div., Waterford, N.Y. and SWS Silicones Div. of Stauffer Chemical Co., Adrian, Mich.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the compositions can include about 0.1 to 2% w/w of a silicone containing compound. In particular aspects, the inventor discovered that dimethicone in combination with the cationic surfactant, the moisturizing agents, and the relatively high amount of water worked well in the context of the present invention.

F. Compositions of the Present Invention

While particular embodiments and amounts are described throughout this specification, it is contemplated that the compositions of the present invention can include water, cationic surfactants, occlusive agents, humectants, and silicone containing compounds can be included in any combination and any amount. Additionally, the compositions can include any number of combinations of additional ingredients described throughout this specification. The concentrations of the any ingredient within the compositions can vary. In non-limiting embodiments, for example, the compositions can comprise, consisting essentially of, or consist of, in their final form, for example, at least about 0.0001%, 0.0002%, 0.0003%, 0.0004%, 0.0005%, 0.0006%, 0.0007%, 0.0008%, 0.0009%, 0.0010%, 0.0011%, 0.0012%, 0.0013%, 0.0014%, 0.0015%, 0.0016%, 0.0017%, 0.0018%, 0.0019%, 0.0020%, 0.0021%, 0.0022%, 0.0023%, 0.0024%, 0.0025%, 0.0026%, 0.0027%, 0.0028%, 0.0029%, 0.0030%, 0.0031%, 0.0032%, 0.0033%, 0.0034%, 0.0035%, 0.0036%, 0.0037%, 0.0038%, 0.0039%, 0.0040%, 0.0041%, 0.0042%, 0.0043%, 0.0044%, 0.0045%, 0.0046%, 0.0047%, 0.0048%, 0.0049%, 0.0050%, 0.0051%, 0.0052%, 0.0053%, 0.0054%, 0.0055%, 0.0056%, 0.0057%, 0.0058%, 0.0059%, 0.0060%, 0.0061%, 0.0062%, 0.0063%, 0.0064%, 0.0065%, 0.0066%, 0.0067%, 0.0068%, 0.0069%, 0.0070%, 0.0071%, 0.0072%, 0.0073%, 0.0074%, 0.0075%, 0.0076%, 0.0077%, 0.0078%, 0.0079%, 0.0080%, 0.0081%, 0.0082%, 0.0083%, 0.0084%, 0.0085%, 0.0086%, 0.0087%, 0.0088%, 0.0089%, 0.0090%, 0.0091%, 0.0092%, 0.0093%, 0.0094%, 0.0095%, 0.0096%, 0.0097%, 0.0098%, 0.0099%, 0.0100%, 0.0200%, 0.0250%, 0.0275%, 0.0300%, 0.0325%, 0.0350%, 0.0375%, 0.0400%, 0.0425%, 0.0450%, 0.0475%, 0.0500%, 0.0525%, 0.0550%, 0.0575%, 0.0600%, 0.0625%, 0.0650%, 0.0675%, 0.0700%, 0.0725%, 0.0750%, 0.0775%, 0.0800%, 0.0825%, 0.0850%, 0.0875%, 0.0900%, 0.0925%, 0.0950%, 0.0975%, 0.1000%, 0.1250%, 0.1500%, 0.1750%, 0.2000%, 0.2250%, 0.2500%, 0.2750%, 0.3000%, 0.3250%, 0.3500%, 0.3750%, 0.4000%, 0.4250%, 0.4500%, 0.4750%, 0.5000%, 0.5250%, 0.0550%, 0.5750%, 0.6000%, 0.6250%, 0.6500%, 0.6750%, 0.7000%, 0.7250%, 0.7500%, 0.7750%, 0.8000%, 0.8250%, 0.8500%, 0.8750%, 0.9000%, 0.9250%, 0.9500%, 0.9750%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%, 2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%, 3.1%, 3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%, 4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5.0%, 5.1%, 5.2%, 5.3%, 5.4%, 5.5%, 5.6%, 5.7%, 5.8%, 5.9%, 6.0%, 6.1%, 6.2%, 6.3%, 6.4%, 6.5%, 6.6%, 6.7%, 6.8%, 6.9%, 7.0%, 7.1%, 7.2%, 7.3%, 7.4%, 7.5%, 7.6%, 7.7%, 7.8%, 7.9%, 8.0%, 8.1%, 8.2%, 8.3%, 8.4%, 8.5%, 8.6%, 8.7%, 8.8%, 8.9%, 9.0%, 9.1%, 9.2%, 9.3%, 9.4%, 9.5%, 9.6%, 9.7%, 9.8%, 9.9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% or any range derivable therein, of at least one of the water, cationic surfactants, occlusive agents, humectants, silicone containing compounds, and additional ingredients that are mentioned throughout the specification and claims. In non-limiting aspects, the percentage can be calculated by weight or volume of the total composition. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the concentrations can vary depending on the addition, substitution, and/or subtraction of ingredients in a given composition.

The disclosed compositions of the present invention may also include various antioxidants to retard oxidation of one or more components. Additionally, the prevention of the action of microorganisms can be brought about by preservatives such as various antibacterial and antifungal agents, including but not limited to parabens (e.g., methylparabens, propylparabens), chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, thimerosal or combinations thereof.

G. Vehicles

The compositions of the present invention can be incorporated into all types of cosmetically and dermatologically acceptable vehicles. Non-limiting examples of suitable vehicles include emulsions (e.g., water-in-oil, water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water, silicone-in-water, water-in-silicone, oil-in-water-in-oil, oil-in-water-in-silicone emulsions), creams, lotions, solutions (both aqueous and hydro-alcoholic), anhydrous bases (such as lipsticks and powders), gels, and ointments or by other method or any combination of the forgoing as would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art (Remington's, 1990). Variations and other appropriate vehicles will be apparent to the skilled artisan and are appropriate for use in the present invention. In certain aspects, it is important that the concentrations and combinations of the compounds, ingredients, and agents be selected in such a way that the combinations are chemically compatible and do not form complexes which precipitate from the finished product.

It is also contemplated that ingredients identified throughout this specification, including but not limited to cationic surfactants, occlusive agents, humectants, or silicone containing compounds, or any combination thereof, can be individually or combinatorially encapsulated for delivery to a target area such as skin. Non-limiting examples of encapsulation techniques include the use of liposomes, vesicles, and/or nanoparticles (e.g., biodegradable and non-biodegradable colloidal particles comprising polymeric materials in which the ingredient is trapped, encapsulated, and/or absorbed—examples include nanospheres and nanocapsules) that can be used as delivery vehicles to deliver the ingredient to skin (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,387,398; U.S. Pat. No. 6,203,802; U.S. Pat. No. 5,411,744; Kreuter 1998).

H. Cosmetic Products and Articles of Manufacture

The composition of the present invention can also be used in many cosmetic products including, but not limited to, moisturizing creams or lotions (e.g., hand creams or lotions, face creams or lotions, neck and décolleté creams or lotions, body creams or lotions, etc.), sunscreen products, sunless skin tanning products, hair products, finger nail products, softeners, day lotions, gels, ointments, foundations, night creams, lipsticks, cleansers, toners, masks, skin-whiteners/brighteners, or other known cosmetic products or applications. Additionally, the cosmetic products can be formulated as leave-on or rinse-off products. In certain aspects, the compositions of the present invention are stand-alone products.

I. Additional Ingredients

In addition to the water, cationic surfactants, occlusive agents, humectants, and silicone containing compounds disclosed throughout this specification, compositions of the present invention can include additional ingredients such as cosmetic ingredients and pharmaceutical active ingredients. Non-limiting examples of these additional ingredients are described in the following subsections.

1. Cosmetic Ingredients

The CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook (2004 and 2008) describes a wide variety of non-limiting cosmetic ingredients that can be used in the context of the present invention. Examples of these ingredient classes include: fragrances (artificial and natural), dyes and color ingredients (e.g., Blue 1, Blue 1 Lake, Red 40, titanium dioxide, D&C blue no. 4, D&C green no. 5, D&C orange no. 4, D&C red no. 17, D&C red no. 33, D&C violet no. 2, D&C yellow no. 10, and D&C yellow no. 11), adsorbents, lubricants, solvents, moisturizers (including, e.g., emollients, film formers, and agents that affect the natural moisturization mechanisms of the skin), water-repellants, UV absorbers (physical and chemical absorbers such as paraaminobenzoic acid (“PABA”) and corresponding PABA derivatives, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, etc.), essential oils, vitamins (e.g. A, B, C, D, E, and K), trace metals (e.g. zinc, calcium and selenium), anti-irritants (e.g. steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories), botanical extracts (e.g. aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber extract, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and rosemary), anti-microbial agents, antioxidants (e.g., BHT and tocopherol), chelating agents (e.g., disodium EDTA and tetrasodium EDTA), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben and propylparaben), pH adjusters (e.g., sodium hydroxide and citric acid), absorbents (e.g., aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, kaolin, corn starch, oat starch, cyclodextrin, talc, and zeolite), skin bleaching and lightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone and niacinamide lactate), humectants (e.g., sorbitol, urea, and manitol), exfoliants, waterproofing agents (e.g., magnesium/aluminum hydroxide stearate), skin conditioning agents (e.g., aloe extracts, allantoin, bisabolol, ceramides, dimethicone, hyaluronic acid, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate). Non-limiting examples of some of these ingredients are provided in the following subsections.

a. UV Absorption Agents

UV absorption agents that can be used in combination with the compositions of the present invention include chemical and physical sunblocks. Non-limiting examples of chemical sunblocks that can be used include para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (glyceryl PABA, amyldimethyl PABA and octyldimethyl PABA), butyl PABA, ethyl PABA, ethyl dihydroxypropyl PABA, benzophenones (oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, benzophenone, and benzophenone-1 through 12), cinnamates (and octyl methoxycinnamate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, octylmethoxy cinnamate, cinoxate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, DEA-methoxycinnamate, ethyl diisopropylcinnamate, glyceryl octanoate dimethoxycinnamate and ethyl methoxycinnamate), cinnamate esters, salicylates (homomethyl salicylate, benzyl salicylate, glycol salicylate, isopropylbenzyl salicylate, etc.), anthranilates, ethyl urocanate, homosalate, dibenzoylmethane derivatives (e.g., avobenzone), octocrylene, etc. Non-limiting examples of physical sunblocks include, kaolin, talc, petrolatum and metal oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide).

b. Moisturizing Agents

Non-limiting examples of moisturizing agents that can be used with the compositions of the present invention include amino acids, chondroitin sulfate, diglycerin, erythritol, fructose, glucose, glycerin, glycerol polymers, glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, honey, hyaluronic acid, hydrogenated honey, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, inositol, lactitol, maltitol, maltose, mannitol, natural moisturizing factor, PEG-15 butanediol, polyglyceryl sorbitol, salts of pyrollidone carboxylic acid, potassium PCA, propylene glycol, sodium glucuronate, sodium PCA, sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, urea, and xylitol.

Other examples include acetylated lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol, alanine, algae extract, aloe barbadensis, aloe-barbadensis extract, aloe barbadensis gel, althea officinalis extract, apricot (prunus armeniaca) kernel oil, arginine, arginine aspartate, arnica montana extract, aspartic acid, avocado (persea gratissima) oil, barrier sphingolipids, butyl alcohol, beeswax, behenyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, birch (betula alba) bark extract, borage (borago officinalis) extract, butcherbroom (ruscus aculeatus) extract, butylene glycol, calendula officinalis extract, calendula officinalis oil, candelilla (euphorbia cerifera) wax, canola oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cardamon (elettaria cardamomum) oil, carnauba (copernicia cerifera) wax, carrot (daucus carota sativa) oil, castor (ricinus communis) oil, ceramides, ceresin, ceteareth-5, ceteareth-12, ceteareth-20, cetearyl octanoate, ceteth-20, ceteth-24, cetyl acetate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl palmitate, chamomile (anthemis nobilis) oil, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, cholesteryl hydroxystearate, citric acid, clary (salvia sclarea) oil, cocoa (theobroma cacao) butter, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut (cocos nucifera) oil, collagen, collagen amino acids, corn (zea mays) oil, fatty acids, decyl oleate, dimethicone copolyol, dimethiconol, dioctyl adipate, dioctyl succinate, dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate, DNA, erythritol, ethoxydiglycol, ethyl linoleate, eucalyptus globulus oil, evening primrose (oenothera biennis) oil, fatty acids, geranium maculatum oil, glucosamine, glucose glutamate, glutamic acid, glycereth-26, glycerin, glycerol, glyceryl distearate, glyceryl hydroxystearate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl linoleate, glyceryl myristate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE, glycine, glycol stearate, glycol stearate SE, glycosaminoglycans, grape (vitis vinifera) seed oil, hazel (corylus americana) nut oil, hazel (corylus avellana) nut oil, hexylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, hybrid safflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, hydrogenated castor oil, hydrogenated coco-glycerides, hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenated lanolin, hydrogenated lecithin, hydrogenated palm glyceride, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, hydrogenated tallow glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrolyzed collagen, hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, hydrolyzed keratin, hydrolyzed soy protein, hydroxylated lanolin, hydroxyproline, isocetyl stearate, isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isodecyl oleate, isopropyl isostearate, isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl stearate, isostearamide DEA, isostearic acid, isostearyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanoate, jasmine (jasminum officinale) oil, jojoba (buxus chinensis) oil, kelp, kukui (aleurites moluccana) nut oil, lactamide MEA, laneth-16, laneth-10 acetate, lanolin, lanolin acid, lanolin alcohol, lanolin oil, lanolin wax, lavender (lavandula angustifolia) oil, lecithin, lemon (citrus medica limonum) oil, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, macadamia ternifolia nut oil, maltitol, matricaria (chamomilla recutita) oil, methyl glucose sesquistearate, methylsilanol PCA, mineral oil, mink oil, mortierella oil, myristyl lactate, myristyl myristate, myristyl propionate, neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, octyldodecanol, octyldodecyl myristate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, octyl hydroxystearate, octyl palmitate, octyl salicylate, octyl stearate, oleic acid, olive (olea europaea) oil, orange (citrus aurantium dulcis) oil, palm (elaeis guineensis) oil, palmitic acid, pantethine, panthenol, panthenyl ethyl ether, paraffin, PCA, peach (prunus persica) kernel oil, peanut (arachis hypogaea) oil, PEG-8 C12-18 ester, PEG-15 cocamine, PEG-150 distearate, PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate, PEG-5 glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 glyceryl stearate, PEG-7 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate, PEG40 sorbitan peroleate, PEG-5 soy sterol, PEG-10 soy sterol, PEG-2 stearate, PEG-8 stearate, PEG-20 stearate, PEG-32 stearate, PEG40 stearate, PEG-50 stearate, PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate, pentadecalactone, peppermint (mentha piperita) oil, petrolatum, phospholipids, polyamino sugar condensate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, polyquaternium-24, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85, potassium myristate, potassium palmitate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, propylene glycol dioctanoate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propylene glycol laurate, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol stearate SE, PVP, pyridoxine dipalmitate, retinol, retinol palmitate, rice (oryza sativa) bran oil, RNA, rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) oil, rose oil, safflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, sage (salvia officinalis) oil, sandalwood (santalum album) oil, serine, serum protein, sesame (sesamum indicum) oil, shea butter (butyrospermum parkii), silk powder, sodium chondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium lactate, sodium palmitate, sodium PCA, sodium polyglutamate, soluble collagen, sorbitan laurate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitan palmitate, sorbitan sesquioleate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitol, soybean (glycine soja) oil, sphingolipids, squalane, squalene, stearamide MEA-stearate, stearic acid, stearoxy dimethicone, stearoxytrimethylsilane, stearyl alcohol, stearyl glycyrrhetinate, stearyl heptanoate, stearyl stearate, sunflower (helianthus annuus) seed oil, sweet almond (prunus amygdalus dulcis) oil, synthetic beeswax, tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tribehenin, tridecyl neopentanoate, tridecyl stearate, triethanolamine, tristearin, urea, vegetable oil, water, waxes, wheat (triticum vulgare) germ oil, and ylang ylang (cananga odorata) oil.

c. Antioxidants

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants that can be used with the compositions of the present invention include acetyl cysteine, ascorbic acid polypeptide, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanol pectinate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, BHA, BHT, t-butyl hydroquinone, cysteine, cysteine HCI, diamylhydroquinone, di-t-butylhydroquinone, dicetyl thiodipropionate, dioleyl tocopheryl methylsilanol, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, distearyl thiodipropionate, ditridecyl thiodipropionate, dodecyl gallate, erythorbic acid, esters of ascorbic acid, ethyl ferulate, ferulic acid, gallic acid esters, hydroquinone, isooctyl thioglycolate, kojic acid, magnesium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, methylsilanol ascorbate, natural botanical anti-oxidants such as green tea or grape seed extracts, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, phenylthioglycolic acid, potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, potassium sulfite, propyl gallate, quinones, rosmarinic acid, sodium ascorbate, sodium bisulfite, sodium erythorbate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, superoxide dismutase, sodium thioglycolate, sorbityl furfural, thiodiglycol, thiodiglycolamide, thiodiglycolic acid, thioglycolic acid, thiolactic acid, thiosalicylic acid, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12, tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocopheryl nicotinate, tocopheryl succinate, and tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite.

d. Structuring Agents

In other non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present invention can include a structuring agent. Structuring agent, in certain aspects, assist in providing rheological characteristics to the composition to contribute to the composition's stability. In other aspects, structuring agents can also function as an emulsifier or surfactant. Non-limiting examples of structuring agents include stearic acid, palmitic acid, stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, stearic acid, palmitic acid, the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 21 ethylene oxide units, the polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 5 ethylene oxide units, and mixtures thereof

e. Essential Oils

Essential oils include oils derived from herbs, flowers, trees, and other plants. Such oils are typically present as tiny droplets between the plant's cells, and can be extracted by several method known to those of skill in the art (e.g., steam distilled, enfleurage (i.e., extraction by using fat), maceration, solvent extraction, or mechanical pressing). When these types of oils are exposed to air they tend to evaporate (i.e., a volatile oil). As a result, many essential oils are colorless, but with age they can oxidize and become darker. Essential oils are insoluble in water and are soluble in alcohol, ether, fixed oils (vegetal), and other organic solvents. Typical physical characteristics found in essential oils include boiling points that vary from about 160° to 240° C. and densities ranging from about 0.759 to about 1.096.

Essential oils typically are named by the plant from which the oil is found. For example, rose oil or peppermint oil are derived from rose or peppermint plants, respectively. Non-limiting examples of essential oils that can be used in the context of the present invention include sesame oil, macadamia nut oil, tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, Spanish sage oil, Spanish rosemary oil, coriander oil, thyme oil, pimento berries oil, rose oil, anise oil, balsam oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, cedar oil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, clove oil, cypress oil, eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, geranium oil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lavender oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrh oil, neroli oil, orange oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepper oil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, rosemary oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, wintergreen oil, or ylang ylang. Other essential oils known to those of skill in the art are also contemplated as being useful within the context of the present invention.

f. Thickening Agents

Thickening agents, including thickener or gelling agents, include substances which that can increase the viscosity of a composition. Thickeners includes those that can increase the viscosity of a composition without substantially modifying the efficacy of the active ingredient within the composition. Thickeners can also increase the stability of the compositions of the present invention. In certain aspects of the present invention, thickeners include hydrogenated polyisobutene or trihydroxystearin, or a mixture of both.

Non-limiting examples of additional thickening agents that can be used in the context of the present invention include carboxylic acid polymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers, polysaccharides, and gums. Examples of carboxylic acid polymers include crosslinked compounds containing one or more monomers derived from acrylic acid, substituted acrylic acids, and salts and esters of these acrylic acids and the substituted acrylic acids, wherein the crosslinking agent contains two or more carbon-carbon double bonds and is derived from a polyhydric alcohol (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,087,445; 4,509,949; 2,798,053; CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, Fourth edition, 1991, pp. 12 and 80). Examples of commercially available carboxylic acid polymers include carbomers, which are homopolymers of acrylic acid crosslinked with allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerytritol (e.g., Carbopol™ 900 series from B. F. Goodrich).

Non-limiting examples of crosslinked polyacrylate polymers include cationic and nonionic polymers. Examples are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,100,660; 4,849,484; 4,835,206; 4,628,078; 4,599,379).

Non-limiting examples of polyacrylamide polymers (including nonionic polyacrylamide polymers including substituted branched or unbranched polymers) include polyacrylamide, isoparaffin and laureth-7, multi-block copolymers of acrylamides and substituted acrylamides with acrylic acids and substituted acrylic acids.

Non-limiting examples of polysaccharides include cellulose, carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionate carboxylate, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methyl hydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulose sulfate, and mixtures thereof. Another example is an alkyl substituted cellulose where the hydroxy groups of the cellulose polymer is hydroxyalkylated (preferably hydroxy ethylated or hydroxypropylated) to form a hydroxyalkylated cellulose which is then further modified with a C₁₀-C₃₀ straight chain or branched chain alkyl group through an ether linkage. Typically these polymers are ethers of C₁₀-C₃₀ straight or branched chain alcohols with hydroxyalkylcelluloses. Other useful polysaccharides include scleroglucans comprising a linear chain of (1-3) linked glucose units with a (1-6) linked glucose every three unit.

Non-limiting examples of gums that can be used with the present invention include acacia, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium alginate, amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine, carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hectorite, hyaluroinic acid, hydrated silica, hydroxypropyl chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar, karaya gum, kelp, locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan, propylene glycol alginate, sclerotium gum, sodium carboyxmethyl dextran, sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and mixtures thereof.

g. Preservatives

Non-limiting examples of preservatives that can be used in the context of the present invention include quaternary ammonium preservatives such as polyquaternium-1 and benzalkonium halides (e.g., benzalkonium chloride (“BAC”) and benzalkonium bromide), parabens (e.g., methylparabens and propylparabens), phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, thimerosal or combinations thereof.

h. Skin Lightening Agents

Non-limiting examples of skin lightening agents that can be used in the context of the present invention include dipotassium glycyrrhizate, ascorbyl glucoside, niacinamide, hydroquinone, or combination thereof.

2. Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Pharmaceutical active agents are also contemplated as being useful with the compositions of the present invention. Non-limiting examples of pharmaceutical active agents include anti-acne agents, agents used to treat rosacea, analgesics, anesthetics, anorectals, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimicrobials, anti-cancer actives, scabicides, pediculicides, antineoplastics, antiperspirants, antipruritics, antipsoriatic agents, antiseborrheic agents, biologically active proteins and peptides, burn treatment agents, cauterizing agents, depigmenting agents, depilatories, diaper rash treatment agents, enzymes, hair growth stimulants, hair growth retardants including DFMO and its salts and analogs, hemostatics, kerotolytics, canker sore treatment agents, cold sore treatment agents, dental and periodontal treatment agents, photosensitizing actives, skin protectant/barrier agents, steroids including hormones and corticosteroids, sunburn treatment agents, sunscreens, transdermal actives, nasal actives, vaginal actives, wart treatment agents, wound treatment agents, wound healing agents, etc.

J. Kits

Kits are also contemplated as being used in certain aspects of the present invention. For instance, compositions of the present invention can be included in a kit. A kit can include a container. Containers can include a bottle, a metal tube, a laminate tube, a plastic tube, a dispenser, a pressurized container, a barrier container, a package, a compartment, a lipstick container, a compact container, cosmetic pans that can hold cosmetic compositions, or other types of containers such as injection or blow-molded plastic containers into which the dispersions or compositions or desired bottles, dispensers, or packages are retained. The kit and/or container can include indicia on its surface. The indicia, for example, can be a word, a phrase, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

The containers can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition. In other embodiments, the container can be squeezed (e.g., metal, laminate, or plastic tube) to dispense a desired amount of the composition. The composition can be dispensed as a spray, an aerosol, a liquid, a fluid, or a semi-solid. The containers can have spray, pump, or squeeze mechanisms. A kit can also include instructions for employing the kit components as well the use of any other compositions included in the container. Instructions can include an explanation of how to apply, use, and maintain the compositions.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are included to demonstrate certain non-limiting aspects of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which follow represent techniques discovered by the inventor to function well in the practice of the invention. However, those of skill in the art should, in light of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can be made in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain a like or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Example 1 Non-Limiting Product Formulation

A non-limiting composition formulated as an oil-in water emulsion is described in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. to 100% Petrolatum 7.000 Glycerin 6.965 Distearyldimethyl Ammonium Chloride 5.000 Propylene Glycol 5.000 C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate 2.500 Cetyl Alcohol 2.000 Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride 2.000 Dimethicone 0.500 Diazolidinyl Urea 0.300 Tocopheryl Acetate 0.250 Methylparaben 0.200 Disodium EDTA 0.100 Allantoin 0.080 Sodium Chloride 0.050 Triethanolamine 0.025

The composition described in Table 1 was prepared via standard mixing, heating, and cooling steps. Table 2 provides reference to this process via the different phases used during the manufacturing process.

TABLE 2 Phase Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) A C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate 2.5000 Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride 2.0000 Distearyldimethyl 5.0000 Ammonium Chloride Tocopheryl Acetate 0.2500 Petrolatum 7.0000 Cetyl Alcohol 2.0000 B Water 65.995 Disodium EDTA 0.1000 Sodium Chloride 0.0500 Glycerin 7.0000 Propylene Glycol 5.0000 Allantoin 0.0800 Methylparaben 0.2000 C Triethanolamine 0.0250 Water 1.0000 D Dimethicone 0.5000 E Diazolidinyl Urea 0.3000 Water 1.0000 TOTAL 100.00

The phase A ingredients include the oil-phase of the oil-in-water emulsion described in Table 1. The manufacturing process included: Added phase A ingredients into a main vessel while mixing and heating to approximately 85° C. for approximately 25 minutes. Added the Distearyldimethyl Ammonium Chloride in two separate parts (2.5 w/w for each) to avoid clumping while adding the phase A ingredients. With respect to phase B, premixed Glycerin and Propylene Glycol and ¼ of the water (heated) in separate container. Added 2/4 of the water (heated) to the main vessel while mixing. Added Disodium EDTA, Sodium Chloride, Allantoin, and Methylparaben to the main vessel while mixing. Added the premixed ingredients into main vessel while mixing. Continued mixing until the batch is free of un-dispersed particles. Then added remaining ¼ of water (heated) to main vessel and continued mixing for approximately 15 minutes and cooled batch to approximately 82° C. Premixed the phase C ingredients and added to batch while gradually cooling the batch to approximately 33° C. Added the phase D ingredient when the batch reached a temperature of approximately 56° C. with mixing. Premixed the phase E ingredients and added to the batch when the batch reached a temperature of approximately 45° C. When the batch reached approximately 33° C. mixing stopped. Batch was homogenous, which indicates that a stable oil-in-water emulsion was formed. The viscosity of the emulsion in Table 2 was consistently between 75,000 and 100,000 cps, as measured on a Brookfield Viscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5 rpm at 25° C.

Example 2 Skin Moisturization Study

The composition described above in Table 1 was studied to determine its skin moisturization capabilities over a twenty-four (24) hour period. Twenty-eight (28) healthy adults were enrolled in and completed the study. This study required two visits to the testing facility. Panelists equilibrated to the testing environment for 5 minutes prior to each time point reading. Panelists had one 2×2 cm test site marked on each volar forearm. A baseline moisture reading of each test site was taken using a Nova™ DPM 9003 Dermal Phase Meter, which measures impedance-based capacitance readings by using varying frequencies of the applied alternating current. The Nova™ DPM 9003 measures the relative water content of the stratum corneum. One test site had the test product applied and the other site was left untreated. The product test sites were randomized over the entire population. The measurements were repeated twenty-four (24) hours after product application. Statistical comparisons for mean percent change from baseline were analyzed by an independent statistician.

Table 3 provides a summary of the results:

TABLE 3 (% Increase in Moisture Over a Twenty-Four Hour Period) 24 Hours Skin Treated with Table 1 Composition  9%* Untreated Skin 0% Treated vs Untreated p-value <0.001 *Significant at 95% confidence level compared to baseline

The data in Table 3 shows that the Table 1 composition increased the moisturization of skin by approximately 9% over a twenty-four (24) hour period.

Example 3 Subjective Study for Tactile Properties and Efficacy

A home use test for the Table 1 composition was conducted among 195 respondents with 187 completing a telephone call back interview. 130 of the respondents were women, and 57 were men. The respondents were directed to use the Table 1 composition over a 10 day trial period as needed. After the 10 day usage period, the respondents were asked to provide their opinions of the Table 1 composition in response to multiple questions. A summary of the responses are provided below in Table 4:

TABLE 4 % % Agree Agree Questions (Male) (Female) Texture/Feel Feels smooth 100  98 Feels moisturizing 98 97 Feels soft 97 95 Feels silky 95 89 Feels satiny 93 87 Feels rich 89 87 Feels emollient 90 86 Feels luxurious 82 85 Application Moisturizes hands 98 95 Restores moisture to skin 98 95 Softens hands 98 94 Leaves hands feeling comfortable 97 93 Nourishes skin 95 94 Instantly leaves hands feeling moisturized 96 93 Does not leave hands feeling sticky or tacky 90 94 Soothes hands 95 92 Provides instant hydration 96 91 Provides instant relief for dry hands 93 93 Massages easily into hands 91 93 Instantly leaves hands feeling smooth 98 90 Pampers hands 91 91 Renews suppleness 93 91 Leaves hands feeling silky 93 89 Does not feel oily or greasy during application 91 87 Has pleasant scent 89 88 Restores suppleness 89 87 Leaves a protective layer on hands 89 86 Has a satin after feel 89 85 Has a neutral scent 88 84 Absorbs quickly 86 82 Wear Is suitable for hands 97 92 Provides long-lasting softness 95 90 Does not leave an oily greasy after-feel 90 90 Is long lasting 90 89 Leaves hands feeling moisturized for hours 89 89 Works like an invisible glove to fight dryness and 93 86 Conditions hands for hours 86 86 Hands feel moist at the end of the day 88 84 Composition lasts through multiple hand washings 83 77 Composition lasts through several hand washings 80 76

Example 4 Prophetic Examples

Additional efficacy data points of compositions of the present inventions can be determined by methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The following are non-limiting procedures that can be used in the context of the present invention. It should be recognized that other testing procedures can be used, including, for example, objective and subjective procedures.

Skin moisture/hydration can be measured by using impedance measurements with the Nova Dermal Phase Meter. The impedance meter measures changes in skin moisture content. The outer layer of the skin has distinct electrical properties. When skin is dry it conducts electricity very poorly. As it becomes more hydrated increasing conductivity results. Consequently, changes in skin impedance (related to conductivity) can be used to assess changes in skin hydration. The unit can be calibrated according to instrument instructions for each testing day. A notation of temperature and relative humidity can also be made. Subjects can be evaluated as follows: prior to measurement they can equilibrate in a room with defined humidity (e.g., 30-50%) and temperature (e.g., 68-72° C.). Three separate impedance readings can be taken on each side of the face, recorded, and averaged. The T5 setting can be used on the impedance meter which averages the impedance values of every five seconds application to the face. Changes can be reported with statistical variance and significance.

Skin clarity and the reduction in freckles and age spots can be evaluated using a Minolta Chromometer. Changes in skin color can be assessed to determine irritation potential due to product treatment using the a* values of the Minolta Chroma Meter. The a* value measures changes in skin color in the red region. This is used to determine whether a composition is inducing irritation. The measurements can be made on each side of the face and averaged, as left and right facial values. Skin clarity can also be measured using the Minolta Meter. The measurement is a combination of the a*, b, and L values of the Minolta Meter and is related to skin brightness, and correlates well with skin smoothness and hydration. Skin reading is taken as above. In one non-limiting aspect, skin clarity can be described as L/C where C is chroma and is defined as (a²+b²)^(1/2).

Skin dryness, surface fine lines, skin smoothness, and skin tone can be evaluated with clinical grading techniques. For example, clinical grading of skin dryness can be determined by a five point standard Kligman Scale: (0) skin is soft and moist; (1) skin appears normal with no visible dryness; (2) skin feels slightly dry to the touch with no visible flaking; (3) skin feels dry, tough, and has a whitish appearance with some scaling; and (4) skin feels very dry, rough, and has a whitish appearance with scaling. Evaluations can be made independently by two clinicians and averaged.

Clinical grading of skin tone can be performed via a ten point analog numerical scale: (10) even skin of uniform, pinkish brown color. No dark, erythremic, or scaly patches upon examination with a hand held magnifying lens. Microtexture of the skin very uniform upon touch; (7) even skin tone observed without magnification. No scaly areas, but slight discolorations either due to pigmentation or erythema. No discolorations more than 1 cm in diameter; (4) both skin discoloration and uneven texture easily noticeable. Slight scaliness. Skin rough to the touch in some areas; and (1) uneven skin coloration and texture. Numerous areas of scaliness and discoloration, either hypopigmented, erythremic or dark spots. Large areas of uneven color more than 1 cm in diameter. Evaluations were made independently by two clinicians and averaged.

Clinical grading of skin smoothness can be analyzed via a ten point analog numerical scale: (10) smooth, skin is moist and glistening, no resistance upon dragging finger across surface; (7) somewhat smooth, slight resistance; (4) rough, visibly altered, friction upon rubbing; and (1) rough, flaky, uneven surface. Evaluations were made independently by two clinicians and averaged.

Skin smoothness and wrinkle reduction can also be assessed visually by using the methods disclosed in Packman et al. (1978). For example, at each subject visit, the depth, shallowness and the total number of superficial facial lines (SFLs) of each subject can be carefully scored and recorded. A numerical score was obtained by multiplying a number factor times a depth/width/length factor. Scores are obtained for the eye area and mouth area (left and right sides) and added together as the total wrinkle score.

Skin firmness can be measured using a Hargens ballistometer, a device that evaluates the elasticity and firmness of the skin by dropping a small body onto the skin and recording its first two rebound peaks. The ballistometry is a small lightweight probe with a relatively blunt tip (4 square mm-contact area) was used. The probe penetrates slightly into the skin and results in measurements that are dependent upon the properties of the outer layers of the skin, including the stratum corneum and outer epidermis and some of the dermal layers.

Skin softness/suppleness can be evaluated using the Gas Bearing Electrodynamometer, an instrument that measures the stress/strain properties of the skin. The viscoelastic properties of skin correlate with skin moisturization. Measurements can be obtained on the predetermined site on the cheek area by attaching the probe to the skin surface with double-stick tape. A force of approximately 3.5 gm can be applied parallel to the skin surface and the skin displacement is accurately measured. Skin suppleness can then be calculated and is expressed as DSR (Dynamic Spring Rate in gm/mm).

The appearance of lines and wrinkles on the skin can be evaluated using replicas, which is the impression of the skin's surface. Silicone rubber like material can be used. The replica can be analyzed by image analysis. Changes in the visibility of lines and wrinkles can be objectively quantified via the taking of silicon replicas form the subjects' face and analyzing the replicas image using a computer image analysis system. Replicas can be taken from the eye area and the neck area, and photographed with a digital camera using a low angle incidence lighting. The digital images can be analyzed with an image processing program.

The surface contour of the skin can be measured by using the profilometer/Stylus method. This includes either shining a light or dragging a stylus across the replica surface. The vertical displacement of the stylus can be fed into a computer via a distance transducer, and after scanning a fixed length of replica a cross-sectional analysis of skin profile can be generated as a two-dimensional curve. This scan can be repeated any number of times along a fix axis to generate a simulated 3-D picture of the skin. Ten random sections of the replicas using the stylus technique can be obtained and combined to generate average values. The values of interest include Ra which is the arithmetic mean of all roughness (height) values computed by integrating the profile height relative to the mean profile height. Rt which is the maximum vertical distance between the highest peak and lowest trough, and Rz which is the mean peak amplitude minus the mean peak height. Values are given as a calibrated value in mm. Equipment should be standardized prior to each use by scanning metal standards of know values. Ra Value can be computed by the following equation: R_(a)=Standardize roughness; l_(m)=the traverse (scan) length; and y=the absolute value of the location of the profile relative to the mean profile height (x-axis).

In other non-limiting aspects, the efficacy of the compositions of the present invention can be evaluated by using a skin analog, such as, for example, MELANODERM™. Melanocytes, one of the cells in the skin analog, stain positively when exposed to L-dihydroxyphenyl alanine (L-DOPA), a precursor of melanin. The skin analog, MELANODERM™, can be treated with a variety of bases containing the compositions and whitening agents of the present invention or with the base alone as a control. Alternatively, an untreated sample of the skin analog can be used as a control.

Skin clarity and the reduction in freckles and age spots can be evaluated using a Minolta Chromometer. Changes in skin color can be assessed to determine irritation potential due to product treatment using the a* values of the Minolta Chroma Meter. The a* value measures changes in skin color in the red region. This is used to determine whether the product is inducing irritation. The measurements were made on each side of the face and averaged, as left and right facial values. Skin clarity can also be measured using the Minolta Meter. The measurement is a combination of the a*, b, and L values of the Minolta Meter and is related to skin brightness, and correlates well with skin smoothness and hydration. Skin reading is taken as above. Skin clarity is defined as L/C where C is chroma and is defined as (a²+b²)^(1/2).

All of the compositions and/or methods disclosed and claimed in this specification can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the compositions and methods of this invention have been described in terms of particular embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the compositions and/or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the method described herein without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the invention. More specifically, it will be apparent that certain agents which are both chemically and physiologically related may be substituted for the agents described herein while the same or similar results would be achieved. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims. 

1. A skin moisturizing composition comprising: (a) a discontinuous oil phase comprising less than 25% by weight of the composition, wherein the discontinuous oil phase includes: (i) an occlusive skin conditioning agent; and (ii) a silicone containing compound; (b) a continuous water phase comprising at least 75% by weight of the composition, wherein the continuous water phase includes: (i) 65% by weight of the composition of water; and (ii) a humectant; and (c) a cationic surfactant, wherein the composition has a viscosity between 75,000 cps to 100,000 cps.
 2. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is a cream or a lotion.
 3. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 2, wherein the composition is not a foam.
 4. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 3, wherein the composition does not include a film forming polymer.
 5. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 1, wherein the composition includes 5 to 10 wt. % of the occlusive skin conditioning agent, 0.1 to 2 wt. % of the silicone containing compound, and 3 to 15% by wt. of the humectant.
 6. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 1, wherein the occlusive skin conditioning agent is petrolatum and the silicone containing compound is dimethicone.
 7. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 6, wherein the discontinuous oil-phase further comprises C12-15 alkyl benzoate, cetyl alcohol, and caprylic/capric triglyceride.
 8. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 6, wherein the humectant is glycerin or propylene glycol.
 9. The skin moisturizing composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is formulated to moisturize skin for 24 hours.
 10. A method for moisturizing skin comprising topically applying the composition of any one of claims 1 to 9 to skin in need thereof, wherein topical application of the composition moisturizes the skin.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the composition is applied to dry or flaky skin.
 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the skin moisture is increased, as determined by comparing water content of the stratum corneum of the skin prior to topical application of the composition and 24 hours after topical application of the composition.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the skin moisture is increased by 5 to 9%.
 14. The method of claim 10, wherein the composition is formulated to remain on the skin after the skin has been rinsed with soap and water for one minute. 